McDonald Warren Kiama

McDonald Warren Kiama A team of passionate locals dedicated to driving informed decisions, supporting local jobs, and promoting smart, sustainable growth for Kiama.

We’re here to make a real difference. Authorised by Cameron McDonald, 18 Manning Street, Kiama, NSW 2533. The Community & Business Group, featuring Cameron McDonald, Erica Warren, Melissa Matters, Mark Burns, and Derek McMahon, is committed to delivering real change for Kiama. We're locals who understand the needs of our community and are focused on informed decision-making, balancing the council’

s budget, and supporting local businesses and jobs. With a clear vision for sensible development and improved infrastructure, we aim to keep Kiama’s unique charm while ensuring sustainable growth. Our team is dedicated to transparency, collaboration, and putting the community first. Together, let’s build a stronger, more sustainable Kiama!

24/09/2024

Group A Statement
Proposed Springside Hill Development

We refer to:
The Southern Regional Planning Panel (SRPP) Rezoning Review released 23 September; and Kiama Council’s Press Release dated 23 September.


The Rezoning Review is significant to the Kiama LGA’s future development and so, prior to the election result being finalised, Group A would like their position known within the community.

Group A’s position

Group A supports the position taken by Council in:

Identifying procedural issues with the Rezoning Review;
seeking extensive further information to address the deficiencies of the proposed development;
allowing an opportunity for elected candidates to be sworn in and become involved in the planning and decision-making process.

Group A supports sensible, sustainable development. It’s not a NO to development. It’s a NO to inappropriate development.

Proposed development
The proposed development requires significant amendment to address concerns regarding (but not limited to):

Road Infrastructure;
Sewage Infrastructure;
Schooling;
Public infrastructure;
Defined and guaranteed affordable housing planning;
Reduced density of development; and
Lack of commercial/retail planning.


Planning process
The planning pathway is flawed.

Council unanimously rejected the proposed development in its current form, and the proponent appealed that decision to the SRPP.

If the SRPP now makes a decision supporting the rezoning:

the proponent will then make an application for Gateway determination (meaning State Government review); and
as Council rejected the initial development application, Council (and our local community) IS EXCLUDED from the planning process and has NO FURTHER SAY in the proposed development.

Council and the local community cannot be in a position where they have no further input into a development (including any input into the Local Environmental Plan amendments or development controls) which is the largest single development in our local community for the last 50 years.

Next step
The proposal must be rejected in its current form.

Any new submission must be made to a newly elected Council and address the community’s concerns.

Our community knows best.

Group A

👇Statement by Cameron McDonald and the Community minded Business Focused team.
10/09/2024

👇Statement by Cameron McDonald and the Community minded Business Focused team.

07/09/2024

🎥 Derek McMahon on Financial Sustainability and Community Growth

In this video, Derek McMahon joins Dave O'Brien from to discuss why he’s running for council with the Community and Business team.

A long-time business owner, Derek emphasises the need for financial sustainability within the council and the importance of supporting local businesses.

He’s passionate about using his experience to help create a stronger, more sustainable future for Kiama.

Watch the full video to hear Derek's insights on council financials and his vision for the community!

07/09/2024

🎥 Mark Burns on Community Leadership and Informed Decision-Making

In this video, Mark Burns sits down with Dave O'Brien from Manning St Cellars to discuss why he’s running for council with the Community and Business team. As the founder of The Man Walk and a passionate community advocate, Mark emphasizes the importance of making informed decisions to move Kiama forward. He highlights the need for the right people in council to create positive change for the community. 💬

Watch the full video to learn more about Mark's vision for progress and collaboration!


🎥 Mark Burns on Community Leadership and Informed Decision-Making

In this video, Mark Burns sits down with Dave O'Brien from to discuss why he’s running for council with the Community and Business team.

As the founder of The Man Walk and a passionate community advocate, Mark emphasises the importance of making informed decisions to move Kiama forward.

He highlights the need for the right people in council to create positive change for the community.

Watch the full video to learn more about Mark's vision for progress and collaboration!

06/09/2024

🎥 Melissa Matters on Passionate Local Leadership

In this video, Melissa Matters sits down with Dave O'Brien from to discuss why she’s running for council with the Community and Business team.

As a long-time Gerringong local and successful business owner, Melissa is committed to making tough decisions that will benefit the community. Her dedication to supporting local businesses and her passion for positive change set her apart.

Watch the full video to hear Melissa's vision for a stronger community!

06/09/2024

🎥 Cam McDonald on Community Advocacy

In this video, Cam McDonald speaks with Dave O'Brien from about why he’s running for council with the Community and Business team.

As a local business owner and long-time community member, Cam is passionate about being a strong advocate for local voices.

He highlights the importance of collaboration and making informed decisions to help the Kiama community thrive for years to come.

Watch the full video to learn more about Cam's vision for a stronger, more connected community!

Swipe through to see how Cam McDonald, Erica Warren, and Group A are shaping Kiama’s future! 👇1️⃣ Community-Minded, Busi...
06/09/2024

Swipe through to see how Cam McDonald, Erica Warren, and Group A are shaping Kiama’s future! 👇

1️⃣ Community-Minded, Business-Focused
Cam, Erica, and Group A are focused on planning for the future while addressing the issues that matter now. Their community-first, business-focused approach is key to creating a sustainable and thriving Kiama.

2️⃣ Balancing the Budget 💼
They’re committed to paying down council debt, spending within our means, and keeping rates low—no special rates variation. Ending state intervention is a priority.

3️⃣ Open and Transparent Council
Cam and Erica aim to restore professionalism to council. They’ll prioritise customer service and provide financial reports every six months to keep you informed.

4️⃣ Sensible Development
Protecting Kiama’s unique environment is vital. They’ll ensure smart growth, meet housing targets without overdevelopment, and keep development decisions local.

5️⃣ Improving Infrastructure 🏗️
From better sporting facilities to upgrading sewer systems and pushing for the state to take responsibility for Jamberoo Pass, Cam and Erica are focused on sustainable infrastructure improvements.

6️⃣ Local Jobs for Local People
They’re committed to creating jobs and activating a nighttime economy while maintaining Kiama’s unique charm.

7️⃣ Vote for Real Change!
Cam McDonald, Erica Warren, and Group A are ready to bring positive change to Kiama. From balancing the budget to improving infrastructure, they’re here for the community.

8️⃣ Vote 1 Group A Above the Line
For a council that puts the community and businesses first, vote 1 for Group A. Cam, Erica, and the team are here to make Kiama a better place for everyone.

05/09/2024

🎥 Erica Warren on Community and Business Leadership

In this video, Erica Warren chats with Dave O'Brien from about what makes the Community and Business team unique.

Unlike others, this group is made up of five individuals, all passionate about joining the council to make a real difference. With a strong connection to local businesses, Erica highlights their genuine commitment to improving the community. 💡

Watch the full video to hear Erica's vision for positive change!

🗳️ How to Vote for the Community & Business Group in the Kiama Council ElectionsMake your vote count by supporting a tea...
05/09/2024

🗳️ How to Vote for the Community & Business Group in the Kiama Council Elections

Make your vote count by supporting a team dedicated to local businesses and sustainable growth. Here’s how you can cast your vote for the Community & Business Group:

1️⃣ Find Group A on your ballot paper.

2️⃣ Vote 1 above the line for Group A to show your support for a team of local business owners and community advocates.

Let’s move Kiama forward with informed decision-making, collaboration, and community-first leadership!

VOTE 1 - GROUP A - above the line. Introducing Number 1, Cameron McDonald, Husband, Father of two and Solicitor. ...
01/09/2024

VOTE 1 - GROUP A - above the line. Introducing Number 1, Cameron McDonald, Husband, Father of two and Solicitor.
Cameron grew up in Kiama and is one of five partners in regional law firm Culleton Lawyers. Cameron has two degrees, a Masters in Property Law and Business Law Transactions and a Graduate Diploma of Applied Finance and Investment. He has travelled extensively, been appointed to State and Australian representative sporting teams in a former career and cut his teeth in a top tier law firm. Cameron is currently the President of the Kiama & District Business Chamber, a member of the Destination Kiama Tourism and Economic Advisory Committee, a committee member of the Kiama Show Society and founding member of the Kiama & District Stronger Community mental well-being group alongside Erica, Mark and Derek. In his spare time Cameron coaches the U11 Girls Kiama Power AFL team (who apparently need little coaching). His family has a long history of serving the community, his father Al being one of the founding members of the Kiama Lions Club in 1970, and who is still a member of the Club. Cameron‘s wife Leah has served for the last 12 months on the Kiama Primary School P&C Association and their children go to Kiama High and Primary Schools. Cameron works tirelessly and has the skills and passion to make the Kiama LGA a better place.

Introducing Jamberoo Local Erica Warren.Erica is a Jamberoo Local and Mother who has spent over 35 years in the hospital...
30/08/2024

Introducing Jamberoo Local Erica Warren.

Erica is a Jamberoo Local and Mother who has spent over 35 years in the hospitality industry. At the age of 51, Erica has spent 46 years of her life here in the Kiama Municipality, attending Kiama Infants, Primary and High Schools.

Her parents, Ross and Nola Warren moved from Sydney to Kiama when she was 5 years old, operating The Grand Hotel Kiama and most recently The Jamberoo Pub.

For the 10 years as the Licensee of Jamberoo Pub she was awarded several Australian Hotels Association awards, along with the Prestigious NSW South Coast Tourism Award, Individual Contribution to South Coast Tourism.

Erica mentored several employees and students in the AHA Women in Hospitality Scholarship Program, where two of her employees were awarded Scholarships.

Most recently, Erica began her own Hospitality Consulting Business and currently is the General Manager of The Co-Op Gerringong. She is a member of the Kiama Business Chamber and Destination Kiama, she is involved in the Kiama & District Stronger Communities and was on the Board of Kiama Tourism.

Erica has a Bachelor of Social Science and majored in Human Resource Management, Human Relations and Communications. She is passionate about our community, hospitality, live music and tourism and supporting our Youth to ensure they have local jobs and the ability to live in Kiama.

She believes in a commonsense attitude to supporting businesses year-round and sensible development that reduces the impact on our beautiful land and environment.

She is running as a Candidate in this election so she play a pivotal role in making common sense decisions within Council, for business for our local community members that supports the broad demographic that lives and visits here.

Introducing Gerringong local, Melissa Matters.Born and raised in Gerringong, Melissa Matters is a proud third-generation...
30/08/2024

Introducing Gerringong local, Melissa Matters.

Born and raised in Gerringong, Melissa Matters is a proud third-generation member of the Miller farming family, a cornerstone of the area.

After attending Kiama High School, Melissa launched her own small business in her early twenties, all while raising her children. This journey into small business was just the beginning for Melissa.

Currently Melissa owns and operates The Hill Bar and Kitchen in Gerringong with her husband, Dean, and their boys, employing 60 local residents.

As co-owners Melissa and her family acquired and began restoring the historic Gerringong Dairy Co-Op, showcasing her commitment to preserving the area’s heritage.

Melissa’s deep connection to the community fuels her passion for its people and culture. Her businesses serve as economic lifelines, offering ample employment opportunities and fostering a welcoming, family-like atmosphere for patrons.

As a cornerstone of the community, Melissa’s businesses also proudly sponsor local football, soccer, and hockey clubs, underscoring her commitment to supporting local sports and youth development.

Melissa’s deep understanding of the hospitality sector, combined with her passion for community development, makes her an invaluable asset to the area.

Her firsthand experience in managing a successful business gives her unique insights into the challenges and opportunities facing our local enterprises.

With her innovative mindset and commitment to excellence, Melissa can help shape and foster economic growth while preserving Gerringong’s natural beauty.

Her proven track record of leadership and her ability to forge strong relationships within the community make her a compelling individual for positive insight within our community.

Address

18 Manning Street
Kiama, NSW
2533

Website

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